How returns change your monthly SIP When you invest through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) in mutual funds, the monthly contribution required to reach a goal depends heavily on the annual rate of return. Small changes in that rate can make a big difference over long periods because of compounding. Two clear examples for a … Read more
Gifting stocks, property, mutual funds or business interests can be a generous and tax-smart way to pass on wealth. But the move has tax consequences for both the giver and the recipient. Understanding the basic rules helps you avoid surprises and make smarter decisions. Why people gift wealth-creating assets Gifts of appreciating assets often shift … Read more
What “pre-approved” really means When a credit card issuer says you are pre-approved or pre-qualified, it usually means a preliminary check shows you meet some basic criteria. That often involves a soft credit pull or reviewing existing customer data. It speeds up the process and can come with special introductory offers, but it is not … Read more
GST cuts change the car-buying calculation Recent GST reductions have lowered the upfront price of petrol and diesel cars. That has prompted many buyers to rework their numbers. A cheaper sticker price narrows the gap with electric vehicles (EVs), but it doesn’t erase the running-cost advantage EVs still hold. Upfront price vs total cost of … Read more
Owning several credit cards can be an advantage — but only when you manage them. Done well, multiple cards can boost your credit profile by improving credit utilisation, building a reliable repayment history, and strengthening your credit mix. Handled poorly, they can trigger high interest charges, missed payments and a lower credit score. How multiple … Read more
Why a strong credit mix matters Your credit score reflects not just whether you pay on time, but how you handle different kinds of borrowing. A balanced mix of loans (installment credit) and credit cards (revolving credit) signals to lenders that you can manage both long-term obligations and flexible credit lines. That diversity can improve … Read more
HDFC Bank offers up to 10,000 bonus Marriott Bonvoy points HDFC Bank is running a limited-time bonus points campaign for holders of the Marriott Bonvoy HDFC Bank Credit Card. Cardmembers who spend up to Rs. 2.5 lakh on the card between 1 October and 30 November 2025 can earn up to 10,000 bonus Marriott Bonvoy … Read more
Personal loan interest rates vary widely across lenders. Below is a clear, easy-to-read guide that lays out typical rates by lender type, explains what drives the differences, and gives practical tips to help you find a better deal. Indicative interest rates by lender type Large public banks: Typically lower, more conservative ranges — ~9%–14% p.a. … Read more
Nominee on a fixed deposit is not the same as owner Being named as a nominee on a fixed deposit (FD) makes it easier for banks to identify who to pay after the depositor’s death. It does not turn the nominee into the automatic owner of the funds. Legal heirs and beneficiaries named in a … Read more
Make irregular income predictable When paychecks arrive at different times or in different amounts, the first step is to turn uncertainty into data. Track every payment and expense for several months to understand your cash-flow pattern. That gives you a realistic baseline to plan from, rather than guessing. Build a buffer that fits your risk … Read more